Japanese heritage brand Danton has been carving out their space in the workwear scene for a while now, consistently delivering expertly crafted clothing. The company started its life as a textile factory in rural France and was later picked up Japanese interest and later acquisition. They’ve stayed true to their routes focusing on producing traditional French workwear with a modern Japanese influence. The result is a healthy dose of both traditional French underrated chic and Japanese fastidious attention to detail and focus on quality. Much of what they were producing back in the original factory in France is still produced today - including overalls, work jackets, and headwear and the French spirit can still very much be felt in all the garments produced.
The brand was picked up by Boy’s CO. LTD in Japan who took on full creative control of Danton in Japan and worldwide. The design house stays low-key with little marketing, instead, letting the quality and style of the product do the talking. While simultaneously keeping one eye to the future, with modern cuts and the best quality fabrics available, the company shows a strong dedication to preserving the heritage of the brand.
Back in France, Danton was selected to produce uniforms for French public administrations and utilities such as R.A.T.P (Parisian Metro) and S.N.F.P (French Railways) as well as ‘The City Of Paris’. This workwear heritage can be seen in their collections today whether it be in the choice of fabric or hickory stripes traditionally used for the railway uniforms
With over 80 years in operation, the company has a rich history to draw upon, and for the new owners, this was an opportunity they couldn’t miss. As the brand began to build traction in Japan they started to branch outwards under the new direction becoming one of the most highly regarded Japanese heritage brands around - and they continue to grow.
Stuarts London has always been at the forefront of men’s style and fashion giving you access to some of the most exclusive heritage brands in the world. We are very excited to be chosen as one of the few official stockists of Danton in the UK and we hope to get the word out about this awesome heritage brand. We’ve put together an outline of some of our favourite pieces from this season and to give you a better idea of the work that goes into each meticulously crafted garment.
Danton are known for the quality of their fabric choices, fabrics which reflect their workwear heritage. This can be seen most clearly in their overshirts. Coming in a classic French style, this chambray pullover shirt features some classic workwear features like extra-large slant pockets on the front, back yoke and hanging hook. The collar is an interesting cut and the lightweight nature of the shirt makes this a great option for spring/summer. You can get the shirt here.
Another fabric used is Flanders Belgium linen - known for its quality and durability. Coming in a relaxed fit this pullover shirt is another great option for the warmer weather months. The fabric is featured on a short sleeve version of the pullover shirt with the same large flat pockets at the front and three-button placket closure and work-style collar.
Another fabric sourced for this season is Katsuargi twill cotton, a Japanese fabric slightly lighter weight than denim with similar properties. It is lightweight and breathable yet hard-wearing and durable. The fabric is featured on a true French workwear classic – the chore jacket. Featuring four large outer patch pockets and metal rivet buttons. This is an awesome, versatile jacket that will serve you for years to come. Get it here.
The Japanese influence is clear in the inclusion of mid-layer pieces such as insulated gilet vests. These work amazingly well as layering pieces that you can layer over a shirt for a variance in texture and instantly giving a workwear vibe to your outfit. They are also highly functional – super lightweight and insulative, they are guaranteed to keep the chill out when you need it. This insulated gilet vest has a clean design and is easy to pair – some options include indigo-dyed denim and twill cotton.
One of Danton’s most iconic pieces returns this season as a truly classic workwear staple – the work shirt. Drawing on traditional workwear the shirt is beautiful in its simplicity. Crafted in carefully selected poplin cotton fabric – there is a gentle balance between ruggedness and lightweight construction. Coming in a boxy fit with a large single patch pocket on the chest and oversize buttons down the front – the shirt shows a clear dedication to its workwear heritage with these details that you just don’t see in modern cuts. The subtle attention to detail will be appreciated by those who appreciate quality and craftsmanship.
Danton t-shirts and made from a mid-weight jersey cotton which is highly breathable and designed for everyday wear. They come in a boxy fit with slightly extended sleeves for a look that draws its influences from Japanese workwear style. They are a great wardrobe staple that makes putting together outfits a breeze. Check out the full range here.
Another strong passion of the brand are accessories, and you can see the care and attention to detail given to the design and finish of all of them. This season we have bucket-hats and caps with careful consideration given to proportion – the size of the brim, the depth of the hat - all in order to fulfill both function and aesthetic purposes. All accessories are finished with the embroidered Danton logo.
A great addition this season are the Nylon Utility bags. Again proportions and functionality and carefully balanced with visual appeal. Each bag is made from a durable, water-resistant codura fabric designed to keep your things dry and safe. Dual zip-compartments give ample space to store everything you need while on the go.